Manufacturing Technician Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chicago, Illinois$48,150 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Manufacturing Technician Jobs in Chicago

Looking for a Manufacturing Technician job in Chicago? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Manufacturing Technician in Chicago, IL.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Chicago has a strong job market for Manufacturing Technicians. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Manufacturing Technician Salary in Chicago

Entry Level
$31,833
Median
$48,150
Senior Level
$67,678

Manufacturing Technician salaries in Chicago are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Chicago is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Equipment OperationQuality ControlTroubleshootingSafetyDocumentation

Manufacturing Technician Job Market in Chicago

Chicago, IL is one of America's premier job markets for Manufacturing Technician professionals. With a population of 2.7 million, the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. The city's strong Finance and Technology sectors create robust demand for Manufacturing Technician talent. The market for Manufacturing Technician positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago

BoeingCaterpillarAbbottBaxterKraft Heinz

Major employers hiring Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago include Boeing, Caterpillar, Abbott, Baxter, and Kraft Heinz. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago

Living in Chicago as a Manufacturing Technician means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,100/month. At median Manufacturing Technician salary, rent would consume about 52% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

107
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.1K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 1
Market Size

Commuting as a Manufacturing Technician in Chicago

Chicago CTA "L" train system with 8 lines, extensive bus network. The average commute time is 35 minutes. The "L" runs 24/7 on some lines - great for varied work schedules. Living near an L station is key - commutes can double otherwise.

Best neighborhoods for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Manufacturing Technician professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Illinois

Illinois has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Manufacturing Technicians

The job outlook for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. As a Tier 1 market, Chicago typically has more openings but also more competition from experienced professionals. In-demand skills include Equipment Operation, Quality Control, Troubleshooting, Safety.

Relocating to Chicago

Winters can be harsh. Budget for winter clothing, and many employers understand weather-related delays during snow events.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Manufacturing Technician salary in Chicago, IL?

The average Manufacturing Technician salary in Chicago, IL is $48,150 per year. Entry-level Manufacturing Technicians typically start around $31,833, while experienced professionals can earn $67,678 or more. The national average for Manufacturing Technician roles is $45,000.

How many Manufacturing Technician jobs are available in Chicago?

Chicago has a robust job market with hundreds of openings for Manufacturing Technician professionals. Major employers hiring Manufacturing Technicians include Boeing, Caterpillar, Abbott, Baxter. The Finance and Technology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Chicago a good city for Manufacturing Technicians?

Chicago is an excellent choice for Manufacturing Technicians. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's finance industry creates strong demand for manufacturing professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago?

Top skills for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago include Equipment Operation, Quality Control, Troubleshooting, Safety, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago?

Chicago's cost of living is near the national average (107% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,100/month. Purchasing power in Chicago is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Manufacturing Technicians in Chicago?

Chicago CTA "L" train system with 8 lines, extensive bus network. The average commute is 35 minutes. The "L" runs 24/7 on some lines - great for varied work schedules.

More Manufacturing Jobs in Chicago